MSAD #9 S.E.E.D. WORSHOPS

May 09, 2008

The first ever Students Exploring Everything Day workshops are scheduled during the school day on Friday, May 9, at the W.G. Mallett School in Farmington.

“Our community is filled with people who have something to share and young students who are curious about the community and the world; what a great combination!" Mallett School Principal Tracy Williams said. "If you spend time with children between the ages of 5 and 9, you have heard from them just how big and interesting the world really is. You may have even heard some of these questions: What do ambulance workers do? How does our school/house get water? Can we plant a garden? Who trains police dogs? How come bees don’t sting the beekeepers? How do you tell different birds apart? Who teaches people to drive the bus? How do flower shops get the flowers? Why do teeth fall out? Where does our trash go? How do you make mittens? Sometimes school moves forward and these very important questions remain unexplored.”

In response to the students' questions, Mallett School and its PTA are planning a special day for its K-3 students to participate in workshops to explore different hobbies, occupations and skills -- things outside the school curriculum. S.E.E.D. is also an opportunity for parents, grandparents, and other community members to become teachers for a day while being part of the Mallett community.

Especially appreciated would be those who could share agricultural talents which are losing prominence in our society, such as weaving, spinning wool, tree-tapping, and soap-making. The topics are wide open and based on what adults are willing to “show and tell” and engage students in. Some examples of sessions to offer are: beekeeping, gardening, fire fighting, nursing, writing, wood working, running/fitness, spinning wool, carpentry and home repair, recycling, musicianship, acting, farming, baking, snowshoeing, maple syrup making, artistry of any form, ambulance/EMT work, scrapbooking, knitting, photography, cheese making, baking, mechanical repair, yoga, drawing, storytelling, bird watching, nature walks and observation, and quilting.

Williams and the PTA believe this is a great way for students to learn more about the many ways that adults work and play in our community, and for the students to become engaged in learning that breaks away from the typical school day. If you can either present a demonstration for students or actually involve them in an activity, craft or skill, please contact Sara Dean, PTA president, at saradean@gwi.net, or Tracy Williams at the school office, 778-3529.